Putin Used Support of Antiterror Coalition
To Gain Concessions for Russia's Agenda

By

Geoff Winestock Staff Reporter of The Wall Street Journal

Updated Oct. 4, 2001 12:01 a.m. ET

BRUSSELS -- Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to win some political and economic dividends at meetings with NATO and European Union officials for his decision to back the U.S.-led coalition against terrorism.

His clearest gain was a promise from EU officials Wednesday to accelerate work on Russia's bid to join the World Trade Organization, which has been stalled for over a year. That followed a similar pledge from U.S. Trade...